Tooth wear and feeding ecology in mountain gorillas from Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) exhibit significantly lower molar tooth wear compared to other primate species, with age and the consumption of gritty plant roots emerging as key determinants. Researchers analyzed percent dentine exposure (PDE) in permanent molars from 23 known-age individuals in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, revealing a strong correlation between PDE and age for both sexes. Additionally, diets rich in root consumption were linked to increased tooth wear, suggesting that the abrasive properties of these foods play a crucial role. The study supports prior findings on reduced wear in mountain gorillas and proposes future research into soil mineral composition to further elucidate intra- and interspecific patterns.

Galbany, J., Imanizabayo, O., Romero, A., Vecellio, V., Glowacka, H., Cranfield, M. R., Bromage, T. G., Mudakikwa, A., Stoinski, T. S., & McFarlin, S. C. (2015). Tooth wear and feeding ecology in mountain gorillas from Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. American Journal of Physical Anthropology, 159(3), 457–465. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajpa.22897